Summer is here and if you’re anything like me, you’re ready to embrace each warm evening, outdoor meal and sun-drenched weekend brunch. And what better way to do that than with some beautiful summer dinnerware?
As someone who loves creating beautiful table settings and also loves throwing together last-minute dinners with friends, I’ve learned that the right serving pieces matters to really set the mood. That means finding the perfect summer dinnerware with amazing plates, bowls and serving pieces. In this post, I will give you my top 10 favorite options for a beautiful summer table setting.
What Makes Great Summer Dinnerware?
Okay, before we dive into my favorite finds, I will give you a few things to look for when choosing your perfect summer dinnerware:
- Lightweight but sturdy materials – Think melamine, ceramic, bamboo or stoneware that can handle both indoor and outdoor meals.
- Colors and patterns that reflect the season – Soft pastels, earthy neutrals, ocean blues and even zesty citrus tones.
- Mix-and-match appeal – Summer is the perfect time to get playful with your table styling. Don’t be afraid to mix solids with subtle patterns.
- Easy to clean – Let’s be real. No one wants to hand wash dishes after a summer soirée.
Curious about which colors are trending this summer? Check out this post!
1. Blue Floral Summer Dinnerware
We’re starting off strong with these blue floral plates that will make your garden feel like it’s in full bloom. I love these plates with their delicate blue blossoms, I believe they can make both elegant and cute summer table settings – without feeling stuffy. It’s just the perfect balance between timeless and summery!
1.1 Style Tip
These works beautifully with woven placemats and light blue glassware to really bring out those floral tones. In addition you can get your own wildflowers and scatter them across the table for a casual but stylish look.
2. Beige Ceramic Summer Dinnerware
If you love a beige and neutral look, this dinnerware set is perfect for you. Its soft, neutral tones create a beautiful foundation for any meal. I really do thing there is something so special about the subtle pattern and clean design – it quietly steals the spotlight. And I have to say, I’m a big fan of a nice, thick ceramic plate!
2.1 Style Tip
These are beautiful to pair with colorful linens or even a vibrant centerpiece to add a pop of colors. Or, they also look beautiful styled in a neutral and minimalist way. It doesn’t always have to be a lot of colors in the summer!
3. Mediterranean-Inspired Summer Dinnerware
If you love the Mediterranean vibes – then you’ll love these sets. Imagine long lunches by the coast, olive trees nearby and the sun warming your table. It’s a pretty amazing feeling, right?
This mix of blue and white brings such an effortless charm to the table. It’s bold, sunny and makes evert meal feel just like a mini getaway. And who wouldn’t want to feel like they’re on vacation in their own home?
3.1 Style Tip
Pair this dinnerware with earthy linens and olive branches for a beautiful natural and coastal look. Then, add some lemons in a bowl or scatter them along the table for a fresh pop of yellow – it’s a simple touch that just makes such a big impact!
4. Citrus or Fruit-Themed Summer Dinnerware
There is nothing that says summer quite like citrus! I love a citrus or fruit-themed plate, they will instantly bring energy and fun to your table. No matter if it’s lemons, oranges or even small little strawberries. These are playful prints that make any meal feel just a little bit more joyful. I mean, these plates will really make you smile, don’t you agree?
4.1 Style Tip
If you focus on the citrus theme, then use a citrusy color palette with yellow napkins, green glassware or a fruit-filled centerpiece. However, if you love the red berries theme, then focus on a pink color palette. It will complement the red berries very well. These plates also pair beautifully with a white or gingham tablecloth for a classic and cheerful summer setting.
5. Speckled Stoneware Summer Dinnerware
If you’re drawn to more of an earthy and natural look, then speckled stoneware is such a beautiful choice. These dinnerware pieces makes you feel calm, grounded and they’re effortless stylish – like something you’d find at a cozy summer dinner party in the countryside. I love the subtle speckled finish that adds just the right amount of texture, but without being too bold.
5.1 Style Tip
When decorating your table setting, it’s important to keep things organic with linen napkins, wooden serving boards and dried florals for a warm and laid-back vibe. These plates will also look amazing stacked on an open shleving so don’t be afraid to use them as decor as well!
6. Terracotta or Clay-Toned Summer Dinnerware
These warm and earthy tones will instantly bring a cozy desert-inspired feel to your summer table setting. Terracotta or clay-toned plates aren’t for everyone – some people absolutely love them, while others prefer a cooler palette. It’s a dinnerware that’s bold without being loud and they will add such a beautiful richness to any meal.
6.1 Style Tip
Pair them with woven textures, beige or rust-colored napkins and some simple glassware. Then, add a few candles and maybe a sprig of rosemary or even an eucalyptus. Then you’ve got yourself a stunning and relaxed table setting that looks effortlessly put together.
7. Bamboo or Wood-Look Melamine
If you’re looking for a true natural and earthy look without the worry of breaking anything, then a bamboo or wood-look melamine set is perfect. These are lightweight, durable and ideal for outdoor dining. They will give the table setting a relaxed and boho vibe that just works beautifully for everything from picnics to casual summer dinners on the patio.
7.1 Style Tip
These will look amazing paired with neutral linens, rattan charger and just som simple greenery. You can even mix them with ceramic pieces for a layered and ecectic table setting that still feels cohesive and warm.
8. Pastel-Colored Minimalist Summer Dinnerware Sets
Soft pastels and clean lines – what’s not to love? I mean, how pretty are these minimalist sets in blush pink, mint, or pale blue? They’re perfectly made for airy summer table settings! They also work beautifully for everything from brunches to evening get-togethers.
8.1 Style Tip
Pair this dinnerware with white or neutral linens to let the pastel tones really shine. Then mix and match a few pastel shades for a more fun and creative look. In addition, add fresh flowers or simple gold cutlery to really elevate the whole table setting – while still keeping things light and modern.
9. Boho Floral or Painted Botanical Summer Dinnerware
If you love lots of color and want your dinnerware to be the focal point on your summer table setting – then this dinnerware are perfect foy you. This is such an amazing way to bring personality to your table. With beautiful painted flowers, leafy motifs or wild garden vibes, these sets will add color, charm and a touch of wanderlust to any summer meal.
9.1 Style Tip
Pair these sets with mixed-texture linens – think lace, macramé or even soft cotton. Then, add fresh wildflowers for a free-spirited and layered look. These plates also work well with vintage glassware or even mismatched flatware for that perfectly imperfect boho feel.
10. Clear or Tinted Glass Summer Dinnerware
I believe a clear or glass tinted summer dinnerware set is so underrated. There’s just something so effortlessly elegant about a clear or glass plate – they catch the light beautifully and add a delicate and airy feel to your table. They’re just so perfect for layering or letting your food take the center stage.
10.1 Style Tip
Glass dinnerware pairs well with metallic accents such as gold cutlery or candleholders. In addition, use a linen tablecloth underneath to let the transparency really pop. To finish off the look, add some floating candler or citrus slices in glass pitches to tie the whole look together.
Final Thoughts
Summer really is the season of ease and with the right summer dinnerware it just makes the summer even more special. No matter what dinnerware you choose, if it’s lots of colors or more of a neutral take on it, the dinnerware will set the tone for the memories you’ll make around the table.
Now, let me know in the comments – which of these sets are your favorite?
